Date or Hate

Raw, witty, lighthearted, and deeply intriguing, Date or Hate is an open and heartfelt commentary about the bleak reality of finding genuine human connection as an immigrant woman in Vancouver. Brilliantly delivered and brutally honest, Vivian tells a story all too familiar for those of us who are often "typecasted" in every role except for "friend". This show perfectly captures the frustrations of every immigrant woman's desire to be seen and understood as a person while enduring the perpetual struggle of breaking through labels and stereotypes.

Funny, emotional, and inspiring, this is a must watch for everyone who is tired of being shoved into a box or relagated to the role of exotic love interest (read: hole). You're allowed to be pissed off if they only want to Date or Hate you.

Proud of you for saying it out loud Vivian.

So authentic and honest! A daring give it all performance.

I watched Vivian’s show on Sunday. It totally exceeded my expectations. For 60 minutes she captivated the audience with her strong acting and the way she moved through so many emotions. Tbh I couldn’t even tell if she was acting or just being herself. She tells a cruel reality in a funny way that made me feel sorry for her, and yet I was really touched by her openness, vulnerability, and courage. It’s a very good show — don’t miss it while it’s still on!

Witty, bold and entertaining! I resonated with many of the messages so much to a point that my heart ached as I laughed. Vivian is a talented actress and creator that deserves to be seen just as she is!

Vivian subverts the solo confessional genre with an unwavering belief in her stories and abilities that is entirely justified: she captivated the audience, holding them in an emotionally receptive state through genuine and challenging criticism of Vancouver’s dating culture. Highly recommended!

I had the opportunity to see Date or Hate on Saturday, and Vivian’s story stayed with me long after I left.

Vivian stood bravely on stage and shared her challenging experience of moving to Canada, finding herself, and searching for connection, friendship, and a sense of belonging.

So much of what she shared resonated deeply with me. Her words were raw, honest, and incredibly moving.

What impressed me most was the way Vivian combined strength, directness, and boldness with such softness and openness. It takes tremendous courage to stand in front of an audience and share the vulnerable parts of your story so openly.

Vivian, thank you for having the courage to share your experience and allowing us into your world. Your story touched me deeply, and I’m grateful I had the opportunity to witness it.

If you have the opportunity to see Date or Hate, don’t miss it. This is a special, deeply human show that deserves to be experienced and supported.

Easily some of the best theatre I’ve seen in Vancouver in recent memory! Absolutely cathartic and funny and poignant and genuine. I went from nodding along vigorously to gasping to laughing out loud. Vivian is such a delight to watch onstage - and such a gift to the Vancouver theatre scene.

Vivian is absolutely brilliant, witty, honest, and unapologetic. Date or Hate lays bare all of the truths we as a society tell people they must hide and work through individually. If you get the chance to see it I cannot recommend this show enough!!!

Vivian drew us in with incredible vulnerability woven throughout her storytelling. The journey that she paints from a palette of her bleeding, caring heart and cutting humour is vivid and wildly relatable. I believe almost all of us can connect with the overarching concept of how absurdly difficult and paradoxical it can be to try to fit in and find true community while also possessing a burning desire to stand out as the beautiful, infinitely dynamic individuals that we all are.

Also, Vivian's funny as hell.

10/10 would recommend

This was truly an unforgettable experience.

Vivian's performance was a mix of stand up and theatre. She was relatable, funny, witty and actually will make you think about the inner message.

I can't wait to see what she does next, and what format of art she chooses to pursue.

Highly recommended!

Well acted, emotionally connected to the audience, and thought-provoking about how we form opinions of people. She kept us engaged the entire show. I would highly recommend.

Vivian went hard on touchy subjects in Canada: Immigrants, BIPOC, Asian Fetish etc...... It was a very personal piece, yet you may find associations with her, with yourself, or your friends.

What does the word "Hong Kong" make you think of? Dim sum? Jackie Chan? or China?

If that's the case, this show is for you.

I really resonated with Date or Hate by Vivian Chan.

Vivian is such a wonderful performer. I loved the way she tells her own story of navigating Vancouver, while using her experiences to unpack what it means to be an Asian woman here — the awkwardness, contradictions, and uncomfortable spaces we find ourselves in.

Her performance is nuanced, vivid, and incredibly honest. She’s brave enough to put herself out there, and I genuinely felt what she felt.

As Asian women, sometimes it feels like people either want to take something from us or don’t see us at all. Date or Hate captures that reality in such a sharp and human way.

Funny, emotional, and painfully relatable. 10/10. ❤️